November 2007 Newsletter

Hello,

This issue of The Dental Clinic Manager Newsletter discusses:

Finding the Best Dental Plans

Resolving Dental Complaints

Selecting a Dentist

With each issue, you will also find links to pages which offer savings on hundreds of items, including dental products. The next issue will cover Dental Emergencies, Teeth Whitening Options and Low Cost Dental Implants to keep you informed. So, let your family and friends know about the Dental Clinic Manager Newsletter by forwarding them a copy!

Wishing you well with your dental needs,
The Dental Clinic Manager

Finding the Best Dental Plans

Want to streamline the process of locating the best dental plan for you and your family? When reviewing the plans, keep in mind that the best plans offer preventive care procedures such as dental examinations, cleanings and x-rays, as basic parts of the plan - some may offer them for free. Also keep in mind your future needs when selecting a plan. If you have children, orthodontic braces may be needed soon. If you need major dental work (such as crowns or implants), then a dental plan that places emphasis on these procedures would be one to consider. Read more about the process here: Best Dental Plans

Resolving Dental Complaints

Some dental complaints result from misunderstandings about services or fees, Others have to do with poor outcomes. Still others may be due to improper treatment. In all cases, the best first step is to discuss the issue directly with the person providing your care. If this does not resolve the problem, there are other areas to consider. Read more about the process of resolving a dental complaint here: Dental Complaint Process

Selecting a Dentist

There are many factors to think about when selecting for a dentist. Review some of the factors that should be considered when choosing the individual who will become one of your closest confidants - as close as your hairdresser or barber. What to Consider when Choosing a Dentist.

Featured Article

Choosing dental care benefits is as much fun as going to the dentist and wondering which drill he will use for your dental filling. Perhaps this is why many people sit back and do nothing. According to Hewitt Associates, a provider of HR services, Only 40% of employed workers actually made a decision about their benefits during the open enrollment last year. Many individuals assume that if they don't do any paperwork, their benefits won't change. In many instances, this is true, but, the decision to not act can be costly. Your employer may choose to select a bare-bones dental benefit plan in cases where you choose not to designate their benefits.

It's very important to consider your choices and make a good decision that you will have to live with for a whole year. Look at your health care spending for the past year. Was it spend on mostly co-payments, prescriptions or visits to the dentist as an emergency patient?

For young children who are chronically ill or need substantial dental work (braces), choose a plan with low deductibles. If you are generally in good dental health and have no dependents, a less comprehensive dental plan may be sufficient for your needs. Also, don't rule out a dental or health plan that is the least expensive. Sometimes, this type of plan can turn out to be a bargain - A dental plan may include incentives such as vision or prescription coverage at no additional cost.

Use plan comparison tools, such as that offered by Dentalplans.com, to make side-by-side comparisons. This type of information should also be included in the packets you receive from your employer during the open enrollment period. But you have to read it in order to obtain the information.

One option to save on dental benefits is to enroll in an employee sponsored flexible spending program. This type of plan allows employees to set aside pre-tax dollars to pay for those expenses (both medical and dental) that are not covered by the insurance company. This includes any co-payment fees, deductables and over-the-counter medications. If both you and your spouse are eligible for benefits, compare both your plans and select the one which offers the most benefits for the least cost.

KEY POINTS TO REMEMBER:

Dental needs change throughout our lifetime. During each phase it may make sense to choose a new plan.

Don't assume that because you do nothing, you will maintain the same plan and have the same level of coverage.

Investigate ways to save money on medical and dental expenses, such as a flexible spending plan and a discount dental plan.